Tacoma library takes canned food in exchange for late fees

View full sizeTacoma library officials guess the average fine being paid through the canned-foods donation program is less than $50. Michal Thompson/The Oregonian

The Tacoma Public Library system is accepting canned food for late fees in a forgiveness program aiming to benefit local food banks.

The Tacoma News Tribune reports that as of Friday, more than 4,200 items had been donated, about 1,270 at the main branch, since the start of the drive. Officials guessed the average fine being paid through the program was less than $50.

The drive targets a notoriously slow period for food bank donations. After an influx of holiday giving, the incoming supplies dwindle this time of year.

The drive runs through next week.

Donations will be distributed to the food banks closest to each library. Part of what's collected at the main branch will go to the Salvation Army.